Letter: Appreciating HALO’s contributions beyond rural boundaries

By Letter to the Editor on November 22, 2023.

Dear editor,

I am writing in response to the recent complaint published in a Medicine Hat News Ticked Off Tickled Pink (Nov. 21) regarding the City of Medicine Hat’s decision to allocate funding to HALO Air Ambulance. While we recognize the allocation of city funds is a matter of concern for many residents, I believe it’s crucial to recognize the broader impact and contributions HALO makes to our community.

It’s important to note that HALO Air Ambulance’s services extend beyond rural areas. In addition to serving remote regions, HALO actively engages in inter-facility transfers from our regional hospital. This is a vital component of our mission, ensuring individuals requiring urgent medical attention can access specialized care, regardless of their location.

Furthermore, HALO plays a crucial role in search and rescue operations, benefiting not only the rural areas but also providing essential support in emergency situations that may arise within the city or surrounding regions. Emergencies, by nature, are unpredictable and can affect anyone, regardless of their urban or rural residence.

While the complaint suggests city dwellers might not directly benefit from HALO’s services, it’s essential to recognize residents often travel outside the city for various reasons. Whether for business, leisure, or visiting friends and family, the reality is city residents do venture beyond urban boundaries. In times of medical emergencies during such travels, HALO Air Ambulance becomes a lifeline, ensuring swift and professional medical assistance.

In conclusion, supporting HALO Air Ambulance is not just about benefiting rural areas; it’s about fostering a comprehensive and inclusive emergency response system that addresses the needs of all residents, regardless of their location. We believe the allocation of city funds to HALO is an investment in the safety and well-being of our entire community and we are very proud of our partnership with the City of Medicine Hat.

Thank you for considering these additional perspectives, and I appreciate the opportunity to shed light on HALO’s valuable contributions to our city and beyond.

Paul Carolan

HALO Air Ambulance

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